Systra Introduces Enhancements to RAILSIM

Systra announced it has implemented enhancements to its RAILSIM Advanced Civil Speed Enforcement System (ACSES) Positive Train Control (PTC) modeling program.

The new version, which has been put into service in the Train Performance Calculator (TPC) and Network Simulator applications, will:

Add transponder locations

Prevent trains from exceeding ACSES speed vs. distance curves

Allow users to define parameters to model driver behavior

ACSES, like all PTC systems, has an impact on locomotive engineer behavior as train operators learn to brake at the rates enforced by the PTC system to avoid penalty brake applications. RAILSIM’s new capabilities allow users to simulate train behavior in such an environment, and the new application facilitates the study of the impacts of ACSES implementation on overall train operations.

“Along with this unique software, SYSTRA brings hands-on operations analysis capabilities to assist railroads to adjust to the new ACSES/PTC operating environment”, said William Crosbie, SYSTRA’s president and CEO.

The RAILSIM Simulation Software Suite represents the latest in PC-based, graphical operations simulation for capital improvements planning, engineering, scheduling, and dispatcher/operator training. RAILSIM is used to optimize capital projects, design new train control systems, develop operating plans, and analyze ridership. Ted Jones, who leads SYSTRA’s team for maintaining and developing the RAILSIM Simulation Software Suite, will give a presentation at 10:30 a.m., June 4, at the American Public Transportation Association's Rail Conference in Philadelphia, entitled: Simulating the Effects of PTC Systems on Railroad Operations. Mr. Jones will be available to elaborate on the program and its recent enhancements in person after the presentation.